Valeport appoints new Innovation and Product Manager

Leading manufacturer of oceanographic and hydrographic instrumentation, Valeport, has appointed Iain Slade as Innovation and Product Manager. Iain comes from a position as a Surveyor and Hydrographic Training Programme Manager at Fugro and Fugro Academy.

In the newly created role at Totnes-based Valeport, Iain will be responsible for formulating ideas for new products and solutions, as well as managing the New Product Introduction (NPI) process from prototype to finished project. This includes reviewing existing products to ensure they remain relevant and meet customers’ current and future needs.

With over 18 years’ experience as an accredited hydrographic professional working within a range of sectors including: civil hydrography, marine renewables, coastal monitoring and offshore oil and gas, Iain has an established international reputation within the hydrographic community.

Iain has a strong commercial background and joins Valeport following 12 years across various roles at Fugro and Fugro Academy, where he was involved in operations offshore as a surveyor, and designing and delivering the internationally recognised FIG/IHO/ICA (IBSC) Category B Applied Hydrographic Survey Training Programme for Fugro Academy.

As a Director of The Hydrographic Society UK, Iain also helped manage the development, external accreditation and implementation of a Hydrographic Professional Accreditation Scheme (HPAS), and now sits on the International Federation of Hydrographic Societies (IFHS) HPAS steering committee as one of the UK representatives. Iain holds an MSc in Hydrography (IBSC Cat ‘A’ recognised Programme), and a BSc in Ocean Science from the University of Plymouth.

Commenting on his new role, Iain Slade said: “Having worked on the other side of the fence in the operational side of the industry, it’s a real pleasure to have the opportunity to understand more about Valeport’s quality oceanographic and hydrographic instruments – equipment which I’ve been using throughout my entire career.

“Valeport is a small but incredibly fast-paced business with a global footprint and great reputation. I’m delighted to have joined the company at such an exciting time in the firm’s growth plan and to be working with a team of highly talented professionals, all with a clear, shared ambition and common goal to continue innovating and be the leading environmental sensor manufacturer.”

Kevin Edwards, Chief Commercial Operations, added: “As a hydrographic surveyor, Iain is exceptionally well-versed in hydrographic operations. His extensive industry knowledge, practical experience of working with Valeport products, and strong commercial background make him a brilliant asset to both our team and our clients. We’re truly excited to have him on board.”

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